A blocked or knocked out tooth can be frightening — especially when it happens suddenly during a fall, accident, or sports injury. In these moments, knowing what to do (and what not to do) can make a big difference to the outcome and whether the tooth can be saved.
This guide explains what a blocked or knocked out tooth actually means, the immediate steps you should take, and when urgent dental care is needed. We'll also cover how dentists treat these injuries, what affects recovery, and how to protect your smile afterward. While this article offers general guidance, every dental emergency is unique — and prompt professional assessment is always essential. The sooner you act, the better the chances of preserving your tooth and preventing further complications.
What Is a Blocked or Knocked Out Tooth?
A knocked out tooth (also called an avulsed tooth) is a tooth that has been completely displaced from its socket. A blocked tooth may refer to a tooth that has been pushed out of position, stuck against another tooth, or impacted after trauma.
Common Causes
- • Sports injuries
- • Falls and accidents
- • Car accidents
- • Physical trauma to the face
What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Is Knocked Out
Time is critical — acting quickly can improve the chances of saving the tooth.
Step-by-Step First Aid
- • Stay calm and locate the tooth.
- • Hold it by the crown (top), not the root.
- • Rinse gently with saline or milk if dirty (do not scrub).
- • If possible, gently place it back into the socket.
- • If not, store it in milk or saliva.
- • See a dentist immediately.
What to Do If a Tooth Is Blocked or Displaced
Do Not Force It Back
Trying to push a blocked or displaced tooth back into place can cause more damage.
Seek Urgent Dental Care
A dentist can reposition and stabilise the tooth safely.
How Dentists Treat a Blocked or Knocked Out Tooth
Repositioning and Splinting
The dentist may gently reposition the tooth and splint it to nearby teeth to allow healing.
Root Canal or Follow-Up Treatment
In some cases, further treatment is required to prevent infection or preserve the tooth.
What Affects Whether the Tooth Can Be Saved?
- • Time outside the mouth
- • Storage method of the tooth
- • Age of the patient
- • Condition of the root and socket
Faster treatment leads to better outcomes.
People Also Ask — Dental Emergency FAQs
How long can a knocked out tooth survive outside the mouth?
Ideally less than 30 minutes, though sometimes longer if stored properly.
Can a knocked out tooth be saved?
Yes, especially if reinserted quickly and treated promptly.
Does a knocked out tooth always need a root canal?
Not always — it depends on the stage of root development and healing.
Is a blocked tooth an emergency?
Yes — it should be assessed urgently to prevent permanent damage.
Had a Dental Emergency?
If you or someone you care for has a blocked or knocked out tooth, seek urgent dental care as soon as possible.